How I
Ensure designs
are accessible
Accessible digital design is the process of creating digital products & services that can be used by as many people as possible, including those with disabilities, impairments, and/or diverse needs, so they can use them the way they need to.
e.g. instead of just simplifying the content, ensure the page is structured properly to allow a screenreader to read the content in a way that makes sense.
Scenario
Whilst working with a Scottish Government agency to design a new registration service to support the incoming Moveable Transactions Act, we ensured that the digital interface of the service was accessible by:
Understanding User Needs
🛜 Conducted user interviews to identify accessibility challenges
🛜 Handled interviews sensitively, as professional users often hide their needs and rely on personal workarounds.
🛜 These insights helped shape an inclusive design approach.
Using Government Design System (GDS)
Used standard GDS components without customisation to maintain WCAG AA accessibility standards.
🔶 Ensured the service was usable for people with visual, hearing, and motor impairments, supporting:
✴️ Screen readers with structured content.
✴️ Zoom functionality without layout distortion.
✴️ Keyboard accessibility for all interactions.
GDS in action
GDS component snapshot
We utilised out-of-the-box GDS components to leverage the historical accessibility testing on them.
Accessibility testing
🧲 Partnered with a specialist organisation to source users with cognitive impairments such as:
⛽️ Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Autism, and ADHD.
🧲 Since the legal content could not be simplified, we:
⛽️ Used plain English where possible.
⛽️ Added real-world examples and a glossary to improve comprehension.
🧲 Tested core journeys with 7 users, using insights to refine content.
Outcomes
🎱 Improved comprehension of the context of the registers
🎱 Insight into unmet needs or unexpected friction
Lessons learned
☄️ Conduct more field studies with professional users to observe them in real-world environments.
☄️ Identify physical and emotional factors affecting their experience.